The AVIC Harbin Z-19E Black Whirlwind attack helicopter has conducted its maiden flight in China's north-eastern Heilongjiang province on 18 May.

The first sortie included hovering, ground-effect manoeuvring, and low passes, says China's official Xinhua news agency, in a report posted on the defence ministry's web site.

The narrow-body, tandem-seat helicopter is China's first export-oriented attack helicopter.  With a maximum take-off weight of 4,250 kg, the Z-19E is a light armed helicopter providing advantages in cruising speed, climb rate, and usable ceiling, according to its developer. The Z-19E is mainly intended to attack armoured vehicles and other ground targets.